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Majlis-Inspired Residence with Sustainable Photovoltaics and Expansive Glazing

Authors:
Tommaso Vacchi, Paola Tonizzo, Manuele Quintino
Majlis-Inspired Residence with Sustainable Photovoltaics and Expansive Glazing

Project in-detail

Utilizing expansive glazing and integrating sustainable photovoltaics, the residence reinterprets the traditional Majlis concept to create an inviting and energy-efficient family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates a traditional Majlis to enhance social interactions and honor cultural heritage.
02
Extensive use of glazing ensures optimal natural light while maintaining thermal efficiency through careful design.
03
Sustainable photovoltaic panels are integrated into the roof to promote energy independence for the household.
04
A meticulously landscaped garden features native vegetation, facilitating ecological harmony and outdoor living spaces.
05
The combination of concrete, aluminum, and ceramic tiles creates a durable yet modern aesthetic tailored for the local climate.
The Dubai Villa is a contemporary residential project situated in the United Arab Emirates that showcases a thoughtful architectural design, carefully balancing modern aesthetics with cultural significance. The villa operates as a private residence, primarily serving the needs of a family while creating spaces suitable for both leisure and social interaction. The design represents a modern interpretation of traditional Middle Eastern architecture, harmonizing the necessary functionality of a home with the cultural values of hospitality and community.

At its core, the villa is structured into distinct areas that cater to differing uses, ranging from public spaces for entertaining guests to private spaces for family activities. The ground floor features a spacious living area and dining room that interact fluidly with the kitchen and service spaces. This open-plan arrangement encourages a sense of connectivity and promotes social engagement, allowing family members and guests to enjoy spaces that feel cohesive and inviting.

In contrast, the first floor provides a retreat with private bedrooms and an office, essential for personal privacy and quietude. The careful spatial organization ensures that the more intimate functions of the home are separated from the more public areas, offering comfort and peace to the inhabitants. Such consideration for both social and personal spaces effectively enhances the overall living experience.

One of the defining characteristics of the Dubai Villa is its clever integration of natural light throughout the living spaces. The building employs large windows and sliding glass doors, which not only facilitate ample daylight penetration but also effectively connect the interior with the exterior landscape. This transition creates a seamless flow, allowing residents to engage with the surrounding environment, which is enhanced by a thoughtfully landscaped garden that includes a swimming pool—an element designed for relaxation and outdoor gathering.

The materiality of the villa plays a crucial role in its architectural expression. Concrete serves as the primary material for the structure, providing durability and modernity, while aluminum frames the expansive glass openings, reinforcing the contemporary aesthetic. Inside the villa, ceramic tiles have been utilized for their practicality in wet areas, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance, and plasterboard has been employed for internal finishes, permitting flexibility for interior design.

Unique design approaches are evident in the villa’s layout, which intentionally prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainability. The incorporation of photovoltaic panels on the roof not only addresses renewable energy generation for the household but also symbolizes a commitment to environmentally responsible design. This emphasis on sustainability is a critical aspect of modern architecture, particularly in regions such as the UAE where climatic considerations are paramount.

Furthermore, the design thoughtfully incorporates cultural elements, specifically through the inclusion of the Majlis—a traditional gathering space that honors Middle Eastern customs of hospitality. This space fosters community interactions while playing a vital role in the family’s social life. Such attention to cultural context alongside modern design solutions establishes the Dubai Villa as a residence that respects historical influences while looking towards the future.

In summary, the Dubai Villa exemplifies contemporary architectural practices by merging functionality, cultural heritage, and sustainability to create a harmonious living environment. Every element, from the architectural plans to the material choices, reflects a keen understanding of the needs of modern family life within a culturally rich framework. For a deeper appreciation and detailed understanding of this project, including its architectural sections and overall design principles, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in further detail.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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